Question: I distinctly ...

Question: I distinctly remember William Shatner starring in a short-lived TV series (I even remember the theme song) called The Barbary Coast. I think he played a pirate. I am, however, the only person who seems to remember this series. Could you confirm its existence for me?  Patrick S., Middletown, Conn.

Televisionary: That I could, Patrick, and I shall. Shatner (Star Trek and T.J. Hooker, as if I need to tell anyone that) starred as government agent and master of disguise Jeff Cable in the series, which was set in the 1870s in an area of San Francisco known, of course, as the Barbary Coast. The show lasted, as you say, for only a brief time on ABC's schedule, debuting in September 1975 and leaving the air the following January.

Cable worked for California's governor, going undercover to root out the bad elements of the day with the help of casino owner Cash Conover (Doug McClure). Another recognizable face in the cast was that of Richard Kiel, best known for his work as the villainous Jaws in the James Bond flicks The Spy Who Loved Me and Moonraker.